Dormaa central: A Communication Team Member of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Dormaa Central Constituency, Peter Mensah, popularly known as Master Planner, has acknowledged that although the government has made significant progress in the fight against galamsey, more needs to be done to address the menace comprehensively.
According to Ghana Web, the government's efforts to curb illegal mining and protect the country's water bodies, forests, and farmlands are commendable. However, the scale and persistence of the menace require sustained action and stronger enforcement.
He cited the repeal of Legislative Instrument (LI) 2462, which allowed mining in forest reserves, the closure of Chanfan Manufacturing Companies in Ghana, and restrictions on the importation of excavators for mining purposes, among other measures, as some of the government's interventions aimed at curbing illegal mining.
Peter Mensah emphasized that while significant strides have been made, complacency cannot be afforded. The protection of natural resources requires collective efforts from the government, traditional authorities, security agencies, and communities.
He highlighted the widespread misconception that legal and illegal mining are often treated as the same, calling for stronger enforcement to ensure compliance with the nation's laws and environmental standards.
Mensah urged traditional authorities to take decisive action against illegal mining on their lands, emphasizing the need to safeguard natural resources for present and future generations.